E-ATX motherboards are the biggest and most feature packed motherboards out there, for high performance PCs. These are for enthusiasts, gamers and professionals who need maximum power, expandability and cooling. E-ATX motherboards usually come with extra PCIe slots, multiple M.2 slots, better VRM and more cooling options, so they are perfect for gaming rigs, content creation systems and workstations.
Selecting the right E-ATX motherboard for your build can be daunting with so many features, brands and chipsets to choose from. The market is filled with high end models for various use cases, from gaming to professional workstations.
This guide will break down the top E-ATX motherboards 2024 by processor (AMD and Intel) and memory (DDR5, DDR4, DDR3). We’ll cover the top picks, buying considerations, user scenarios and component recommendations for the ultimate high end builds.
What to look for in an E-ATX Motherboard
VRM
For high end builds VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) is key. E-ATX motherboards usually have top tier VRM designs with good cooling solutions which are perfect for overclocking and handling power hungry CPUs.
Look for boards with high phase count and efficient power delivery to ensure stable performance under load. VRM is especially important for those who plan to push their CPU to the limit, as poor VRM can cause thermal throttling or system instability.
Details:
- What VRMs Do: VRMs regulate power from the PSU to your CPU and other components. Good VRMs ensure stable voltage, reduces the risk of instability when overclocking or under heavy load. Bad VRMs can cause system crashes or lower overclocking headroom.
- Types of VRM Phases: Motherboards like ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme have high phase VRM designs (e.g. 18+2 power stages) which provides more stable power delivery. Compare the phase count across chipsets like X670E, Z790, X299 to see which board is more stable.
PCIe Expansion and Connectivity
E-ATX motherboards are known for their many PCIe expansion slots, perfect for multi-GPU setups, additional expansion cards and more.
When choosing a board, look at the number of PCIe slots, their version (PCIe 4.0 or 5.0) and if the board supports SLI or CrossFire for multi-GPU configurations.
Also look at how many M.2 slots and SATA ports are available for your storage setup.
Details:
- PCIe 5.0 vs PCIe 4.0: PCIe 5.0 is twice as fast as PCIe 4.0, so it’s a must have for those who want to future proof their system.
- SLI and CrossFire Support: While multi-GPU setups are less common in gaming builds, they are still popular in professional workstations. Look for motherboards like ASUS ROG Rampage VI Extreme Encore which has multiple PCIe 3.0 x16 slots for multi-GPU configurations.
Memory Support
ATX memory support (DDR5, DDR4 or DDR3) is a key factor to consider when choosing a motherboard. DDR5 has the latest speed and efficiency but DDR4 is still widely used and more affordable. For legacy systems DDR3 is still an option but it’s mostly outdated.
Details:
- DDR5 Performance: DDR5 has more bandwidth, higher frequency and better efficiency than DDR4. For gaming, content creation and multitasking, DDR5 motherboards like ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme is the best for future proofing.
- DDR4 and DDR3: For budget builders or those upgrading older systems, DDR4 boards like MSI MEG X570 Godlike is great performance at a lower price. DDR3 motherboards are for legacy systems, but their performance is now far behind DDR4 and DDR5.
Networking and Storage
E-ATX boards have advanced networking options like Wi-Fi 6E, 10G LAN and multiple Ethernet ports. Some high-end E-ATX motherboards have up to 8 SATA ports for plenty of storage options.
These are must have for high speed data transfer especially in professional environment. E-ATX motherboards also have plenty of storage options, multiple M.2 slots and SATA ports with RAID support for data redundancy or performance.
By looking into overkill power delivery, VRM quality, PCIe expansion, memory support, and future-proofing, you’ll be ready for whatever the future brings. Similarly equipped motherboards may have dual Thunderbolt ports or more USB ports like USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 for faster connectivity.
With only two SATA ports, four SATA ports, or even eight SATA ports for storage devices, you’ll have a decent option for an expansion card and graphics card. For those on a reasonable price budget, there are great features like active cooling and default settings that help improve support overclocking performance on a high end CPU.
Details:
- Wi-Fi 6E: This next-gen wireless standard operates in 6 GHz band, reduces interference and has higher speeds. If you’re streaming, gaming or working in a dense wireless environment, motherboards like ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme with Wi-Fi 6E will perform better.
- 10G LAN: For professionals who work with large file transfers or multi-user environment, 10G LAN is a must. Motherboards like Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Xtreme has this for fast wired networking, for smooth data transfer and low latency gaming.
Cooling Solutions
E-ATX motherboards have more cooling options due to their size and higher power requirements. The placement of audio ports on the rear I/O panel also affects the overall design and cooling of the motherboard.
Most models have large heatsinks, integrated water blocks or dedicated headers for AIO (All-in-One) and custom water cooling.
Cooling is important for performance and stability especially when overclocking.
Details:
- Custom Water Cooling vs AIO Cooling: Custom loops have the best cooling performance but require more setup and maintenance. AIO coolers are easier to install and maintain, many high-end E-ATX motherboards like MSI MEG X570 Godlike has dedicated headers for AIO pumps.
- Airflow: Airflow is important when using E-ATX motherboards which have power hungry components. Choose a case with good airflow and plan your fan layout to avoid overheating.
Future Proofing
E-ATX motherboards are designed with future upgrades in mind, they have latest technologies like PCIe 5.0, DDR5 support and USB 4.0.
These features will keep your system competitive as new components are released, so they are great long term investment.
Details:
- PCIe 5.0 and DDR5: Both PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 are the future proofing of your build. PCIe 5.0 has twice the bandwidth of PCIe 4.0, perfect for future GPUs and SSDs. DDR5 has higher speeds and efficiency which will be the new standard for high end PCs in the coming years.
- Thunderbolt 4 and USB 4.0: As more peripherals adopt these high speed interfaces, having Thunderbolt 4 or USB 4.0 support means your system can handle next gen devices without bottleneck. Look for motherboards like ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme that has these connectivity options.
Budget
High End ($$$$)
For enthusiasts and professionals who want maximum performance, high end E-ATX motherboards with latest technologies are the way to go.
These boards have the best VRM designs, multiple PCIe 5.0 slots, Thunderbolt 4 and advanced cooling solutions.
Investing in a high end motherboard means your build can handle extreme overclocking, multi-GPU setup and demanding workloads with ease.
Details:
- Overclocking Potential: High end motherboards like ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme has robust VRM designs and efficient power delivery, perfect for pushing AMD Ryzen 7000 series CPUs to the limit. Explain the benefits of high quality VRMs in maintaining stable overclocks.
Mid Range ($$)
Mid range E-ATX motherboards are the balance between cost and features, perfect for those on a tight budget. These boards have most of the benefits of high end boards but at a more affordable price.
They are good for gaming, content creation and productivity, with solid VRM designs, good memory support and plenty of expansion options without the extreme price tag.
Details:
- Bang for the Buck Features: Mid range boards like MSI MEG X570 Godlike has premium features like PCIe 4.0, Wi-Fi 6 and multiple M.2 slots but at a price that’s more affordable for gamers or creators who wants excellent performance without breaking the bank.
4.3 Budget E-ATX Motherboard Builds ($$)
While E-ATX boards are more expensive, there are budget options available. These boards may not have all the features of the higher end boards but still has excellent performance for gaming and general use.
Budget E-ATX motherboards are for builders who need expandability and performance without the premium price tag.
Details:
- When to Choose Budget E-ATX: Budget E-ATX motherboards can still be a good choice for gamers or creators who don’t need the absolute best features but want a larger motherboard for future expandability. Explain the trade offs in choosing a budget option, fewer PCIe slots or lower tier VRM designs.
Future Proofing: Things to Consider for Future Upgrades
PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 Adoption
To future proof your build, make sure to choose an E-ATX motherboard with PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support.
These technologies has the highest performance and will allow you to upgrade to the latest GPUs, SSDs and memory as they become available.
Details:
- Why PCIe 5.0 Matters: PCIe 5.0 has double the bandwidth of PCIe 4.0, it’s a must have for future proofing. As next gen GPUs and SSDs start to require higher bandwidth, having a motherboard that supports PCIe 5.0 means your build won’t become obsolete in a few years.
- DDR5’s Impact on Multitasking and Gaming: DDR5 has higher memory bandwidth and efficiency which is great for content creators, video editors and gamers who multitask with heavy applications.
USB 4.0 and Thunderbolt 4
Many high end E-ATX motherboards has USB 4.0 and Thunderbolt 4 ports. High end E-ATX motherboards often has many USB ports, plenty of connectivity options for users.
These ports has faster data transfer speeds and broader compatibility with future peripherals.
Details:
- High Speed Connectivity: Thunderbolt 4 and USB 4.0 is becoming standard on high end peripherals especially in creative fields where fast data transfer is required. E-ATX motherboards with these ports like ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme is perfect for future proofing your workstation or gaming PC.
User Scenarios: Motherboard to Match Your Needs
Enthusiast Gaming Rig
For gamers who wants the best performance, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme is one of the best gaming motherboard out there.
It has dual PCIe 5.0 slots for the latest GPUs, DDR5 support and Wi-Fi 6E, perfect for 4K gaming, VR and ultra high refresh rate monitors.
Details:
- Ideal Gaming Build: A complete build example would be AMD Ryzen 9 7950X, NVIDIA RTX 4090, 64GB DDR5 RAM and 2TB PCIe 5.0 SSD. Explain how each component works together to give the best gaming experience at 4K and above.
Professional Content Creation Workstation
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme is perfect for content creators who needs plenty of memory support, multiple M.2 slots and Thunderbolt 4 ports.
Other motherboards from other brands also has plenty of memory support and multiple M.2 slots.
With this motherboard, video editors, 3D animators and other creatives can take advantage of its high speed storage and networking options.
Details:
- High End Workstation Build: Pair the Z790 Extreme with Intel Core i9-13900K, NVIDIA RTX A6000 and 128GB DDR5 memory for a content creation machine that can handle 8K video editing or heavy 3D rendering. Explain how Thunderbolt 4 improves workflow by connecting to external storage or monitors.
High Performance Multi-GPU Setup
For multi-GPU setup, the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Xtreme is a good choice. These motherboards also has overclocking support so it’s good for heavy workloads.
This motherboard has three PCIe 5.0 x16 slots and robust VRM cooling, perfect for heavy workloads like AI training, scientific computing and rendering.
Details:
- Advanced Workloads: Multi-GPU is required for tasks like deep learning or AI training. Explain how a build with Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Xtreme, two NVIDIA A100 GPUs and Intel’s i9-13900K can accelerate these workloads.
Server or Home Lab Build
The ASUS Rampage VI Extreme Encore is good for server or home lab build. With up to 256GB of DDR4 RAM, multiple PCIe slots and dual Gigabit LAN, it has the features to run virtual machines, databases and network services.
Details:
- Server Workload Example: Build a server with Intel Xeon W-2295, 128GB ECC RAM and a mix of high capacity NVMe and SATA storage for a home lab or virtual machine environment. Explain how dual LAN ports and multiple PCIe slots offer great networking and storage options.
Streaming and Gaming Combo
For a system that needs to handle both streaming and gaming, the MSI MEG X570 Godlike is one of the best gaming motherboards.
It has multiple PCIe 4.0 slots, Wi-Fi 6 and great audio so streaming and gaming is smooth.
Details:
- Streaming and Gaming Build: Pair AMD Ryzen 7 5800X with AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT, 32GB DDR4 RAM and 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD for a streaming and gaming combo. Explain how built-in Wi-Fi 6 and great audio improves gaming and streaming.
Example Builds: Component Recommendations
Ultimate Gaming Build
- Motherboard: ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 7950X
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090
- RAM: 64GB DDR5 6000MHz
- Storage: 2TB NVMe PCIe 5.0 SSD
- PSU: 1000W 80+ Platinum
- Case: Corsair Obsidian 1000D
This build is for 4K gaming at highest settings. The ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme has the latest gaming features including PCIe 5.0, DDR5 support and great cooling.
Details:
- Cooling Recommendations: For this build, a custom loop or high-end AIO cooler is recommended to keep the Ryzen 9 7950X and RTX 4090 cool during long gaming sessions. Explain the benefits of both cooling solutions and which cases are suitable for each.
High-End Content Creation Workstation
- Motherboard: ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme
- CPU: Intel Core i9-13900K
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX A6000
- RAM: 128GB DDR5 5600MHz
- Storage: 4TB NVMe SSD (RAID 0)
- PSU: 1200W 80+ Platinum
- Case: Lian Li PC-O11 Dynamic XL
This build is for professional content creators who need maximum performance in video editing, 3D rendering and other heavy tasks.
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme has plenty of memory support and connectivity options.
Details:
- Why RAID 0?: RAID 0 is for faster read and write speeds, perfect for 4K and 8K video editing workflows. Explain how to set up RAID 0 for maximum performance and the downsides of using RAID 0 for data redundancy.
Budget Gaming Build
- Motherboard: MSI MEG X570 Godlike
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
- GPU: AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT
- RAM: 32GB DDR4 3600MHz
- Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD
- PSU: 750W 80+ Gold
- Case: Phanteks Enthoo Pro
This build is for great gaming at a lower price, using the MSI MEG X570 Godlike features without the high cost of DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 components.
Details:
- Cost-Efficiency in Gaming: Explain how DDR4 and PCIe 4.0 is good enough for modern gaming without the extra cost of latest technologies like DDR5 and PCIe 5.0. Compare this build with a higher end DDR5 build.
E-ATX Motherboard Buying Guide
How to Choose an E-ATX Motherboard
Choosing an E-ATX motherboard for your build requires considering many factors, CPU compatibility, memory support, VRM quality and motherboard form factor.
Here are the key things to consider when choosing a motherboard for your build.
Details:
- CPU Compatibility: Always check the CPU socket type (e.g. AM5, LGA 1700) to make sure your chosen CPU will fit the motherboard. For example, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme supports AMD Ryzen 7000 series CPUs with AM5 socket.
- Memory Support: Choose a motherboard that supports the type and speed of RAM you will be using. For high-end builds, DDR5 is the best option as it’s faster and future proof. But DDR4 motherboards are still available and more affordable.
Compatibility Checklist
Make a step by step checklist for users to follow when choosing an E-ATX motherboard. Make sure they consider everything from cooling solutions to power supply wattage to form factor compatibility with their case.
Details:
- Cooling and Case Size: E-ATX motherboards are larger than ATX or Micro-ATX boards, so make sure your case is E-ATX compatible. Many full-tower cases like Corsair Obsidian 1000D support E-ATX boards with plenty of room for cooling solutions.
BIOS and Software
BIOS and software utilities that come with each motherboard are important for managing performance, overclocking and system stability.
A good BIOS is easy to use and has advanced controls for fan speeds, memory timings and overclocking settings.
Details:
- BIOS Features: Motherboards like ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme has user friendly BIOS that has one-click overclocking and memory tuning. Explain how to use these features to boost performance.
E-ATX Motherboard Reviews and Comparison
ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme vs. ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme
Both are top end EATX motherboards, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme is for AMD builds with PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support, while the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme is for Intel builds with advanced networking and overclocking.
Choose based on your CPU platform to get the most out of your build.
Details:
- Platform-Specific Features: X670E vs Z790 comparison – PCIe lanes, memory support and overall performance.
Real-World Performance Data
In benchmarks, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme excels in content creation tasks with its premium audio, cooling and memory settings. Cinebench, 3DMark, Blender benchmarks.
The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Xtreme, another motherboard with similar specs, has more USB Type-A ports and better overclocking in gaming, especially with multi-GPU setups that benefit from more PCIe bandwidth.
So if you need SATA drives and USB devices and a test bench config for USB Type-C needs, the Gigabyte Z690 is the way to go.
Details:
- Benchmark Comparison: Include data from Cinebench, 3DMark and Blender to compare each motherboard in different scenarios, gaming, content creation and workstation.
Manufacturer Ecosystem
Each manufacturer has an ecosystem for RGB lighting control and system monitoring. ASUS has ASUS Aura Sync and Armoury Crate for RGB lighting sync, fan control and system monitoring across compatible ASUS Republic products.
MSI has Mystic Light and Dragon Center for similar functions but for mini ITX boards and competing boards.
Gigabyte RGB Fusion has more customization options for graphics cards, rear USB and thermal guard. Good for those who want synchronized lighting and fan control for EATX motherboard and new build.
Details:
- RGB and Monitoring Software: Explain the features of each manufacturer’s ecosystem, how software like ASUS Armoury Crate and MSI’s Dragon Center can control system monitoring, fan control and RGB lighting sync.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
User Feedback
ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme gets high marks for its build quality, overclocking and connectivity.
Users love its easy to use BIOS and stable performance under load. Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Xtreme is loved by gamers and professionals for its PCIe 5.0 and advanced networking features.
Details:
- Positive Reviews: What users like about each motherboard, stable power delivery, easy to install and cooling.
- Negative Reviews: Mention the common issues like multi-GPU setup and BIOS update for newer CPU.
10. Visual Content
Images and Diagrams
Include images of the motherboards with diagrams to highlight the features like PCIe slots, VRMs and M.2 storage.
Visuals will help readers to understand the layout and design of each motherboard.
Details:
- Build Guides: Add link or create build guides for high-end gaming rig or workstation using E-ATX motherboard.
Mini FAQ: E-ATX Motherboard FAQ
What is the difference between E-ATX and ATX motherboard?
E-ATX (Extended ATX) motherboard is bigger than ATX motherboard, has more features, more PCIe slots and more cooling options.
Some smaller motherboards like ITX may have only 2 SATA ports, limited storage options compared to E-ATX. E-ATX motherboard is 12 x 13 inches while ATX is 12 x 9.6 inches, more space for high-end components.
Details:
- FAQ Additions: Add more questions like “What cooling solutions for E-ATX build?” or “How PCIe 5.0 improve gaming performance?”
Price and Availability
Price Trend
As of 2024, DDR5 motherboard is getting more mainstream so the price is dropping slightly. But E-ATX motherboard is still a premium option, especially those with PCIe 5.0 and advanced cooling.
If you want to build future proof system, consider investing on high-end E-ATX motherboard, it’s the best performance and expandability.
Details:
- Pricing History: Brief history of motherboard pricing for the last few years, explain how the technological advancements (e.g. DDR5, PCIe 5.0) affect the current pricing.
Where to Buy
US: Amazon, Newegg, Best Buy
UK: Scan, Overclockers UK, Ebuyer
Australia: Mwave, PC Case Gear, Centrecom
Watch out for seasonal sales like Black Friday or Cyber Monday where you can get big discount on E-ATX motherboard.
Some retailers also offer bundle deal where you can get CPU, RAM or other component at a lower price when you buy together with the motherboard.
Details:
- Buying Tips: Provide tips on how to buy motherboard at the best price like waiting for sale, checking open-box or refurbished option and how to spot the real discount.
Build Issues and Troubleshooting
BIOS Update
Updating BIOS can be tricky especially with new CPU. Make sure your E-ATX motherboard has BIOS flashback feature so you can update the BIOS without CPU installed. This feature is very useful when building with the latest CPU.
Details:
- How to Use BIOS Flashback: Explain how to update the BIOS using BIOS Flashback feature on E-ATX motherboard like ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme. Provide step by step guide to help user avoid common mistake.
RAM Compatibility Issue
Always check the motherboard’s QVL (Qualified Vendor List) for RAM compatibility. Even if the RAM kit is within the supported speed, it may not work well if it’s not on the QVL.
Details:
- Troubleshooting RAM Problem: Walk through how to manually adjust memory timings and voltage in the BIOS if you encounter stability issue with your RAM.
GPU Clearance Issue
With E-ATX motherboard, especially in smaller case, GPU clearance can be a problem. Check both the motherboard and case specifications to make sure your chosen GPU will fit without blocking other component or affecting airflow.
Details:
- Case Compatibility: List of cases that are suitable for E-ATX motherboard and large GPU, explain how to ensure good airflow and component fit.
Manufacturer Ecosystem
ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light, Gigabyte RGB Fusion
These ecosystem allow you to sync the RGB lighting across the compatible component, so your build will look cohesive.
Whether it’s your motherboard, GPU, RAM or even peripherals like keyboard and mouse, having all your RGB element in sync will make your setup look amazing.
Details:
- RGB Lighting Integration: Provide example of how user can sync their RGB lighting across different component, from RAM to GPU to case lighting.
Conclusion and Recommendation
Best Picks
- Best for AMD: ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme (DDR5)
- Best for Intel: ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme (DDR5)
- Best Budget: MSI MEG X570 Godlike (DDR4)
Details:
- Longevity and Upgrade Path: Remind user to future proof when investing in high end E-ATX motherboard. Motherboard with PCIe 5.0, DDR5 and Thunderbolt 4 will support future upgrade, so your build will remain competitive for years to come.
Conclusion
Picking the best E ATX motherboards for your build is all about knowing what you need. Whether you’re building a gaming rig, content creation workstation, or professional server, there’s an E-ATX motherboard that can fit your needs.
Additionally, most users will appreciate a notable feature like dual channel memory support and compatibility with the latest Intel CPUs, including Intel chips. A Previous gen audio codec is also replaced with newer tech in new motherboards designed for Raptor Lake Refresh and PCIe Gen support, ensuring compatibility with new systems.
Whether you’re targeting overclocking or the best motherboards for deals reasons, the best motherboard with key features can power up your system to meet today’s and tomorrow’s needs.